PAgO Empowers Farmer Organization through Leadership and Governance Training with Gender and Development         

To further empower our local farmers with the vital knowledge and competencies required for sustainable growth, the Provincial Agriculturist’s Office (PAgO)             successfully conducted a two-day workshop titled “Strengthening and Capacitation of Farmer Organizations through Governance & Leadership Development and Parliamentary Procedure with Gender and Development (GAD)” held on 28-29 August, 2025, at Vencio’s Garden Hotel & Restaurant in Calapan City. The event gathered forty (40) dedicated participants, including officers of various farmer cooperatives and associations, as well as City and Municipal Rural Based Organization (RBO) Coordinators. PAgO designed this training to address critical gaps in governance and leadership within Oriental Mindoro’s agricultural sector.

The two-day training was facilitated by Mr. Christian B. De Ade of the Cooperative Development Authority, who guided participants through key concepts on organizational development, leadership, and cooperative governance. Discussions covered the history of organizations, challenges commonly faced by agriculture-based groups, and the roles and responsibilities of leaders and members. Participants actively shared their experiences and took part in interactive activities that reinforced leadership skills and the importance of following procedures. The sessions also highlighted the fundamentals of cooperatives, Gender and Development (GAD), parliamentary procedures, and the proper writing of minutes and resolutions, fostering a collaborative learning environment grounded in practical application and inclusive growth.

As the event drew to a close, Ms. Vida Gracia Basa, Provincial RBO Coordinator, summarized the key discussions and issued a call to action, urging attendees to disseminate their insights within their respective Local Government Units (LGUs). By strengthening leadership at the grassroots level, PAgO continues to ensure that Oriental Mindoro’s farmer organizations remain thriving, equitable, and resilient contributors to the province’s economic development.●

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